Product Manager

NICHOLAS G. WARD

**** ******** ****, **** *******, Michigan 48059

810-***-**** (h)

**********@*****.***

Program Manager

Over 13 years experience delivering profitable initiatives for Tier 1 automotive suppliers. Leveraged engineering background and strong communication skills to lead international teams through the product development life cycle on time and on budget. Relied upon for analytical, methodical approach to challenges, coordinating extensive resources to meet demanding deadlines.

Areas of expertise and professional strength include:

* Process Control

* Supplier Readiness

* Budget Administration

* Production Oversight

* Resource Allocation

* Alternate Fuel Systems

* Product Launch

* Integration & Validation

* Lean / Kanban

KEY ACCOMPLISHMENTS

* Launched Ford F-150 Seat Trim and JC49 Airbox Assembly projects in Mexico for Engineered Plastic Components on budget within extreme time constraints.

* Designed fuel and brake line systems for Dodge Ram models, collaborating closely with customer to design optimum products for both TI and DaimlerChrysler.

* Held accountability for up to $25 million in capital expenditures as TI Program Manager.

* Developed new Fuel and Vapor Quick Connector technology performance specifications for TI.

* Instrumental in launch of CNG Bi-Fuel J-Car for GM and integration of Hydrogen Vehicle Storage.

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

ENGINEERED PLASTIC COMPONENTS (Blue Water Automotive Systems, Inc.), Marysville, MI, 2004 - Present

Project Manager

* Managed and engineered up to eight customers/programs simultaneously, overseeing all budget items, tooling investment, injection tooling design, automation development and supplier readiness.

* Approved supplier tooling and automation based on quoted requirements and performance needs.

* Delivered F-150 program, collaborating with color match specialists on extensive color matching through hundreds of color trials.

TI GROUP AUTOMOTIVE SYSTEMS, Warren, MI, 1996 - 2004

Program Manager (2002 - 2003)

* Managed Tier 1 customer programs from conception to JOB 1, communicating customer needs while directing APQP team of Application Engineering, Process Engineering, Account Management, Plant Quality, Manufacturing Engineering, Tool Sources, and Sub-suppliers.

* Launched company's first PVEZ Fuel Transfer System for Ford Focus, including 100% helium leak testing within manufacturing process, overseeing several companies and Ford's director.

* Determined capitalized and customer owned tooling requirements and created financial reports on tooling payback.

* Established international supplier base and master timeline for successful program completion; controlled supplier readiness issues.

Advanced R&D Engineer (1996 - 1998; 2003 - 2004)

* Developed new automotive fuel system components.

* Executed drawing approval, prototyping, tooling trials, validation testing management, manufacturing feasibility, and cost analysis.

Application Engineer (1998 - 2000)

* Supported pre-production launches with prototype parts, working with customers to design optimum system for both TI and DaimlerChrysler.

* Led Dodge Ram BR 00/01 and DR 02/03 fuel and brake line systems program, working with 125 part numbers and 600 drawings.

* Performed AQP with DaimlerChrysler and TI manufacturing facilities, developed processes, tested components, and created documentation such as DVP&Rs, BOMs, and DFMEAs.

* Managed development of other Application Engineers.

QUANTUM TECHNOLOGIES, Warren, MI, 2000 - 2001

Senior Integration Engineer / Validation Engineer

* Managed technical development of the CNG, LPG and hydrogen fuel delivery system, including design, integration, validation, calibration, manufacturing, and vehicle build.

* Ensured integrity of fuel delivery system through engineering development and vehicle level testing.

* Developed production aid documents for secondary manufacturers by installing alternate fuel systems on existing vehicle platforms.

* Led team through integration of Hydrogen Vehicle Storage and launch of GM's Bi-Fuel J-Car.

TECHNICAL COMPETENCIES

Advanced Product Quality Planning (APQP):

DFMEA, PFMEA, D/PVP&R, Controls Plans

Design & Documentation:

GD&T; BOM and BOD Documentation; Corrective Action Documentation (Fishbone, 5 Phase, 7 Step, and 8D)

Computer:

Microsoft Office; Microsoft Project

EDUCATION

Bachelor of Science, Engineering Physics, Hope College, Holland, MI

Minors: Mathematics and Chemistry

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